05/04/2020
You have the most powerful tool to detect skin cancer – your eyes. Catching skin cancer early can be the different between life and death. We recommend performing a self-skin exam every month and have a skin check with a board-certified dermatologist every year, unless otherwise specified. See below for tips on how to perform a skin check and what to look for.
During a self-exam there are three things to look for: new, changing, and unusual. Keep an eye out for any new moles or blemishes, spots that are changing in color, shape, size, texture, spots with unusual borders or areas of different colors. Also, make note of any itchy moles or spots that bleed or crust. Stand in front of a full-length mirror and have a hand-held mirror handy.
Examine your body front and back in a full-length mirror. Use a hand mirror to examine your face – don’t forget your nose, lips, mouth and ears. Part your hair different ways to inspect your scalp, you can also use a blow-dryer to help get each section. Check your hands and feet - in between your fingers and toes, under your nails, your palms, the bottom of your feet. Look at your arms, elbows, underarms and armpits. Check your neck, chest, and torso.With your back to the full length mirror, use the hand mirror to check the back of your neck, shoulders, upper back and arms, scan your lower back, butt, and the back of your legs. Put each leg up on a stool or chair to check both sides of your legs and ankles.
To schedule your yearly skin check call 781-729-4878!
